Keystone Derby Cup coming to Pittsburgh? Check. Playoffs? Check. Tonight the Riverhounds knew what was at stake and handled business in Harrisburg as they played their Keystone Derby rival, the Islanders. The Hounds took care of business early as they scored two goals which was all that was needed in a final score of 2-1.
Pittsburgh’s defense played very well against its same state rival, and stopped the Harrisburg City Islanders from spoiling one of the better seasons in the Hounds’ history.
The first goal came in the 34th minute from a perfect pass by Rob Vincent to Lebo Moloto, who launched it past keeper Nick Noble.
The Riverhounds wasted no time in adding on to their first score when in the 35th minute Vini Dantas freed up Kevin Kerr running on the further end of the field who cranked the ball right past Noble who had no chance to defend the goal.
The Hound’s defense kept the Harrisburg City Islanders off the scoreboard until the later part of the second half. In the 75th minute, Antoine Hoppenot shot a laser past the Hounds’ keeper, Calle Brown. The shot was made by possible by Garret Pettis, who crossed the ball and setup Hoppenot for a chance to bring the Islander back within one.
Luckily for the team and fans, that was all Harrisburg could manage. Barring a few close chances, Pittsburgh’s defense was able to finish off an impressive performance and cap off a successful season.
With this win the Riverhounds now qualify for the playoffs, giving them a final record of 11-9-8 with a total of 41 points. Out of the six playoff teams, Pittsburgh has the second most goals (53), however with the playoffs looming the Hounds will have some tough defenses to play against.
Rob Vincent will be a major key to the success of this team in the playoffs. Finishing third in the league in points with 42, Vincent has proved to be the Riverhounds best weapon in offensive possessions. Kerr, who placed 6th in the league in points with 29, will also need to step up and facilitate scoring chances with Vincent.
Champions!!! pic.twitter.com/8ePLAgeO5N
— PghRiverhounds (@PghRiverhounds) September 20, 2015
The Keystone Derby Champions will be taking on the New York City Redbulls II next Saturday at 5p.m.
Photo credit: @PghRiverhounds
